INEC reacts to LP convention

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reacted to the convention by the Labour Party (LP).

The electoral body disowned the convention, noting it didn't monitor it.

This was disclosed by Mr Rotimi Oyekanmi, the Chief Press Secretary to INEC Chairman in a chat with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Thursday.

Julius Aburi, the National Chairman of the party retained his position while Peter Obi was handed the presidential candidacy at the convention which was held at Nnewi, Anambra State.

Kehinde Edun, the LP National Legal Adviser who spoke on the venue change said the party has informed INEC about the change in venue and date.

“No, it is holding in Anambra. Nnewi, to be precise, not Umuahia in Abia State again. Umuahia was not even the first venue we chose. Benin was the first choice before we changed to Umuahia and now Nnewi.

“So, we are at liberty to pick any venue of our choice. We only need to inform INEC about the change in venue and time,” Edun said.

Section 82(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022 states that political parties shall give INEC at least 21 days notice of convention, congress, conference or meeting.

This includes the convention or meeting convened for the purpose of “merger” and electing members of its executive committees, other governing bodies or nominating candidates.